Purple Maxi Dress

As a vertically challenged woman I never thought that I could pull off a maxi dress but this dress has changed my mind!

Don't mind the weird kitty in the background!  The purple cotton lawn has a crazy print that obstructs the construction details of Butterick 5490 like the pleating at the bodice and skirt.  The bodice is lined in plain white cotton batiste and zips up the back.   

The unlined skirt is light and flowy and makes me feel like a million bucks. :)  Maxi dresses aren't so scary after all!  

Static Sencha Blouse

This is my second blouse made from Colette's Sencha pattern.  Version 1 is a very simple top that showcases the interesting fabric (teal, black & white ikat cotton lawn from Denver Fabrics). 

The back closes with five white buttons:

The hand stitching around the sleeve hems and back edges is fun to do for a change.  The white thread at the bottom hem looks a little weird so I might redo it with black.  At any rate, I'm hoping that this will be a good addition to my work wardrobe!      

Navy Cynthia Rowley Dress

Pattern used was View B of Simplicity 2497 (a Cynthia Rowley design).   This looks MUCH better in person (not so shiny). 

Instead of using a contrast fabric I used purchased red piping to outline the yoke, waistband, and sleeves. Oh boy did this cause a lot of swearing!  The piping had to be hand basted onto the seam allowance and then carefully machine sewn with my zipper foot.

Seven Dollar Sheath Dress

I made this dress last minute to wear to a lovely summer wedding.  The whole thing cost me only $7 in supplies!

Pattern I used was Simplicity 2588 ($1.99 on sale from Jo-Ann)
Fabric was about 2 yards of brown and ecru lace-print poly sateen ($1.99/yard from Fabric Mart)
Zipper and interfacing was from my stash (free-ish)
Buttons from Ben Franklin ($1.00)

I usually don't sew specifically with the intent to save money but this is a great example of how home sewing can save a buck.

I loved that the pattern included pockets hidden in the front pleats of the skirt--no need to carry a purse!  The bride told me that I looked "very Jackie O." in the dress and I suppose that it does have a 1960's vibe.  I will definitely be making a variation from this pattern again.